Experience the lush flavors of Brazil with this Creamy Brazilian Coconut Pudding, also known as Cocada Cremosa. This traditional dessert transforms pantry staples—sweetened condensed milk, unsweetened coconut, coconut milk, butter, and heavy cream—into a silky, spoonable pudding that’s naturally gluten-free and ready in just 20 minutes. Whether served warm or chilled, it brings tropical sunshine to any table.
😍 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultra-quick & easy: Only 15 minutes active cooking time, stir-and-serve simplicity.
- Pantry-friendly: Uses staples you likely have—sweetened condensed milk, coconut flakes, and coconut milk.
- Make-ahead magic: Prepare up to 3 days in advance; flavors deepen over time.
- Naturally gluten-free: No flour or thickeners needed—perfect for gluten-sensitive guests.
- Tropical indulgence: Intense coconut flavor with a rich, caramel-like sweetness from condensed milk.
- Versatile serving: Enjoy at room temperature, chilled, or with fruit, toasted coconut, or a splash of rum.
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 3 cups unsweetened shredded coconut (or flaked coconut)
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
👩🍳 Preparation
- Combine Base Ingredients
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add the sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, and coconut milk. - Cook & Stir Constantly
Stir continuously for 10–12 minutes, scraping the pan bottom to prevent scorching. The mixture will thicken and begin to pull away from the sides. - Finish with Cream
Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream until fully incorporated. The pudding will be loose—residual heat will finish the cooking as it cools. - Portion & Chill
Spoon the warm pudding into individual serving glasses or ramekins.
– Room temperature: Let sit 10–15 minutes before serving.
– Chilled: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour for a firmer texture.
💡 Tips & Tricks
- 🔪 Perfect consistency: Look for the “spoon-trail test”—a clear path on the pan bottom that slowly fills in.
- 🔥 Even cooking: Use a heavy-bottomed pan and low heat to avoid burning condensed milk.
- 🌴 Flavor boost: Toast a handful of coconut flakes and sprinkle on top before serving.
- 🥃 Adult twist: Stir in 1–2 tsp dark rum or cachaça just before removing from heat.
- ❄️ Storage: Keep covered in the fridge up to 5 days. Press plastic wrap onto the surface to prevent a skin.
🎉 Final Thought
This Creamy Brazilian Coconut Pudding (Cocada Cremosa) is the ultimate quick-and-easy tropical dessert—rich, luscious, and irresistibly coconutty. Serve it solo or with fresh fruit, and watch it disappear faster than you can say “Obrigado!” 🌴🥥